Department of Recreation and Parks

About the Department

Established in 1949, the Department of Recreation and Parks is dedicated to providing quality recreational and leisure opportunities to the citizens of Baltimore County. Thousands of recreational programs, including individual and team sports, arts and crafts, social clubs and activities, and special events are provided through a cooperative effort with volunteer Recreation and Parks Councils throughout the County.

Hundreds of Parks, Recreation Centers and Facilities

The Department is responsible for acquiring, developing and maintaining a wide range of parklands and open spaces as well as recreation centers, nature centers and other specialized facilities.

A joint use agreement with the Baltimore County Board of Education and Baltimore County Public Schools also provides for the dual use of class public schools as community recreation centers.

The Board of Recreation and Parks

The basic concept of the Board of Recreation and Parks is to help local communities through the local Recreation and Parks Councils, help themselves in meeting their recreation and park needs, and to provide recreation direction only where wanted and where people indicate a desire and willingness to help themselves.